Graham Evan Petty

Graham Evan Petty was born to Scott and Julie Petty on August 2nd, 2008 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD. His name was chosen for its dignity in sound and meaning. Graham's first name means "generous". His middle name, Evan, means "God is gracious" and "Warrior". Detected a month before his birth, Graham was born with a rare chromosomal condition causing malformations to several of his organs - the worst of these, his heart. God was gracious to share Graham with us, and now it was Graham's time to prove his warrior status, as he would begin a four-month fight for his life. On August 5th Graham was flown to Omaha, Nebraska where a team of doctors and nurses from Children's Hospital began to lay out a plan to save Graham's heart. However, other problems unexpectedly began to surface. In four months Graham endured six surgeries to organs such as his heart, intestines, and airway. Born with a broken body but a strong will to live, Graham fought through each surgery. His toughness caught the attention of many. His heart surgeon affectionately nicknamed him "Big Graham Petty" and several of the nurses grew very fond of him. The Caring Bridge site for Graham recorded 31,984 interested supporters and continues to climb. Throughout the month of December, Graham's obstacles became insurmountable. He passed away on Sunday, December 14, 2008. Graham will always be remembered for his small, snuggly size; his beautiful dark hair; his knowing gaze; loving his Okoboji cow; and his knack for sticking his tongue out. Graham is loved much and will be missed. He is survived by his parents, Scott and Julie Petty; brother, Caden; grandparents, Gary and Carol Main and Steve and Sue Petty; uncles, Gary Main and his wife Carry and Ben Petty and his wife Marianne; great-grandparents, Madge Peters, Charles and Helen Main and Phyllis Veseen. Graham is also survived by cousins, great aunts & uncles and other family.